At the Shockwave Foundation, we are always on the lookout for innovative and impactful organizations that are not just addressing the immediate needs of communities, but are creating lasting, resilient, and sustainable solutions. A little over a year ago, we had the privilege of forming a partnership with the Africa Sand Dam Foundation (ASDF), based in Kenya. After visiting three of their projects this past September, we can confidently say that we have found a partner whose work we truly admire and whose approach to community engagement is as innovative as the technology they employ.
Sustainable Technology for Water Security
Matthemu community members building their new dam.
ASDF’s primary focus is the construction of sand dams in semi-arid regions—areas where water scarcity is often a life-and-death issue. Sand dams, while not suitable for all environments, have proven to be a game-changer in regions with porous soils and heavy seasonal rainfall, followed by long dry periods. These conditions are found in parts of southeastern Kenya, Malawi, Madagascar, and even desert regions in California.
The concept behind a sand dam is deceptively simple yet highly effective: instead of the typical reservoir dam, which is vulnerable to evaporation and silt build-up, the sand dam utilizes the natural properties of sand and silt to store water. As the dam collects sand and silt, it forms a natural barrier that slows down the flow of water, allowing surface water to seep into the sand, where it is stored and protected from evaporative losses. The sand also acts as a biological filter, improving water quality. By tapping into this underground reservoir, communities can access clean water even during dry spells, with minimal upkeep needed.
The impact is profound. These sand dams not only provide water security for communities but also help recharge the local groundwater, improving agriculture and grazing areas. They are a win-win solution that meets both immediate and long-term needs, especially in areas where conventional water infrastructure has not been viable.
A Model for Community Engagement
Newly completed Mulunga dam, water just filling in.
What sets ASDF apart is not just the technology they employ, but the way they engage with the communities they serve. At every stage of the project, from initial outreach to long-term maintenance, ASDF puts community involvement at the heart of its approach.
Communities learn about ASDF’s work through word-of-mouth or outreach and apply for support. The first step is a thorough evaluation of the local geography and geology to ensure that a sand dam is a viable solution. Once confirmed, ASDF works closely with local communities, helping them to create “self help groups” (SHGs), to discuss the resources the dam could provide and how the benefits will be shared across multiple neighboring communities. This collaborative approach ensures that everyone—from upstream to downstream—is considered, helping prevent conflict and ensuring equitable access to water.
ASDF does not believe in simply handing over a project and walking away. Instead, they provide communities with the knowledge, skills, and tools they need to manage and maintain the dam long after construction is complete. This includes setting up operations and savings structures for ongoing maintenance, providing training on riparian area management, and teaching drought-resistant crop selection to ensure the community can thrive in a changing climate.
Perhaps most importantly, ASDF requires that the communities themselves contribute the majority of the building materials and labor. While ASDF provides engineering expertise, project coordination, and technical support, the people in the communities are the ones who carry the responsibility for the dam’s success. This sense of ownership and involvement is one of the reasons why the projects are so successful: communities invest not just their resources, but their hearts and minds into the project’s sustainability.
A Partnership for the Future
Fully operational, the sand dam has transformed the area.
After a year of working with ASDF, we are thrilled to have renewed and increased our funding to support their vital work. The impact of their sand dams is clear, and their commitment to community-driven development is truly inspiring. We are proud to partner with such a dedicated and effective organization.
We strongly encourage our fellow funders and partners to explore both the technology and community engagement practices employed by ASDF. Their work is a powerful reminder that when communities are empowered with the right tools and support, they can create transformative change that lasts for generations.
If you’re interested in learning more about ASDF’s work or would like to discuss potential opportunities for collaboration, we are more than happy to make introductions and open doors for further partnerships. Together, we can continue to support organizations that are making a lasting difference, one sand dam at a time.